LEXICAL AND CONTEXTUAL ANALYSIS OF ‘DECEMBER’ SONG LYRICS BY NECK DEEP SEMANTIC

Abstract

This study examines the lexical and contextual meanings in the lyrics of the song "December" by Neck Deep, focusing on how language conveys emotional experiences of heartbreak, loss, and longing. Using a qualitative descriptive approach, the research analyzes selected words and phrases from the song, applying Cruse's (2011) theory of lexical meaning and Saeed's (2015) for contextual meaning. The findings reveal that the lyrics employ literal and symbolic language to depict emotional turmoil, with words like "heartbreak," "cold," and "December" shifting from their dictionary definitions to deeper, contextually rich interpretations. The study highlights how semantic analysis can uncover the layered emotional and psychological themes in song lyrics, demonstrating their role as a medium for personal and collective expression. The results contribute to a broader understanding of how language in music articulates universal human experiences, particularly among young audiences navigating complex emotional landscapes.